Evolution of venous thromboembolism risk assessment in trauma and surgical patients

Abstract

and prophylactic on admission was noted for each patient. The patient was then subsequently re-evaluated during the hospitalization using the same criteria. Additional information obtained included demographic data, prior surgery, hospital-length of stay, prior history of DVT, and whether or not prophylaxis was appropriate initially and on reassessment. A one-way analysis of variance was then performed. Results: Among the 96 enrolled patients, 76 progressed in their VTE risk resulting in change of risk category. Change by one category of risk occurred in 33 patients, two categories occurred in 19 patients, and three categories occurred in 24 patients. In addition to change in risk category, the need for change in prophylaxis was also evaluated in these patients by comparing percentage of patients given appropriate prophylaxis initially and again on re-evaluation. Discussion: We feel that repeated reassessment of VTE risk throughout a hospital stay is indi-cated. Prophylactic measures based on risk should also be adjusted accordingly.